Agilent unveils USB-based power sensors

Agilent Technologies Inc. has released the Agilent U2000 Series of USB-based power sensors that save bench space and make fieldwork easier and simpler by operating without power meters or extra hardware modules. The sensors are more affordable and lighter weight than typical power meters and similar power-sensing solutions.

These sensors can be used with a variety of Agilent signal sources, spectrum analysers and network analysers, extending each instrument's capabilities to perform accurate average-power measurements. In addition to fast and easy setup with plug-and-play USB connectivity, the sensors also ease monitoring and troubleshooting with the feature-packed N1918A Power Analysis Manager software.

Because the Agilent U2000 Series sensors are USB-powered and provide built-in triggering, they don't require external power adapters and triggering modules for synchronisation with external instruments or events.

"The U2000 Series USB sensor's ability to operate without a power meter marks a breakthrough in our offerings for power measurements," said Ee Huei Sin, VP and general manager of Agilent's basic instruments division. "With the rising need for multiple-channel power measurements in various industries, these power sensors are the affordable, simple solution that our customers have requested."

The Agilent U2000 Series currently includes four models that deliver up to 250 readings/s, 9kHz to 24GHz frequency range and -60dBm to 20dBm power range. Each sensor includes a Hi-Speed USB 2.0 interface for simple, quick setup. With internal zeroing capability, calibration can be done without disconnecting the sensor from the DUT, hence reducing test time and sensor wear-and-tear.

The sensor displays power measurement results on a PC or selected Agilent instrument with the N1918A Power Analysis Manager software. On top of the normal waveform monitoring option, the software also eases monitoring and troubleshooting with functions such as limit and alert settings, record and playback, multiple-list view, overlay and channel mathematics.

The Agilent U2000 Series is available now. Pricing starts at Rs.93,993.32 ($2,300).

What is a sensor?
A device that receives and responds to a stimulus or signal. Sensors measure real-world conditions, such as heat or light, and then converts this condition into analog or digital representation.